Crispy Garlic Mushrooms

This crispy oven fried garlic mushroom recipe transforms ordinary mushrooms into a mouthwatering appetizer that rivals any restaurant version. The combination of almond flour and sunflower seeds creates a perfectly crispy coating while keeping the mushrooms tender and juicy inside. It's the ultimate guilt-free alternative to deep-fried mushrooms.

I first created this recipe when looking for healthier alternatives to my favorite restaurant appetizers. My family was skeptical at first, but now these mushrooms disappear within minutes whenever I make them for gatherings.

Ingredients

• Small to medium sized mushrooms: From a 6 8 ounce carton chosen for their perfect bite size and ability to hold up to baking
• Almond flour: Provides the perfect gluten free base for the coating with a subtle nutty flavor
• Raw sunflower seeds: When ground create an incredible crispy texture and boost nutritional value
• Garlic powder: Infuses the coating with rich savory flavor that pairs perfectly with mushrooms
• Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors throughout the coating
• Paprika: Adds a gentle warmth and beautiful color to the finished mushrooms
• Dried parsley: Brings a fresh herbal note and visual appeal
• Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds umami depth but can be omitted for dairy free version
• Extra large egg: Acts as the perfect binding agent to help the coating adhere
• Butter (melted, optional): Enriches the coating with flavor but can be omitted if dairy free
• Avocado or olive oil: Helps achieve that perfect golden crispy exterior

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Heat your oven to 400°F and thoroughly coat the bottom of a baking sheet with avocado or olive oil. This creates the base for that perfect crisp exterior and prevents sticking. Make sure to spread the oil evenly for consistent results.

Clean Mushrooms:

Thoroughly rinse mushrooms under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them completely dry with paper towels. Excess moisture will prevent proper crisping, so ensure they're as dry as possible before proceeding.

Prepare Sunflower Seed Powder:

Place raw sunflower seeds in a small blender or food processor. Pulse repeatedly until they reach a fine powder consistency similar to flour. Be careful not to over process or they'll begin releasing oils and turn into sunflower seed butter.

Create Coating Mixture:

Add the ground sunflower seeds, almond flour, garlic powder, sea salt, paprika, dried parsley, and optional parmesan cheese to a zippered storage bag. Seal the bag and shake thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly. This allows for easy coating of the mushrooms.

Prepare Egg Wash:

In a small mixing bowl, thoroughly beat the extra large egg or two regular eggs until completely mixed. If using, add the melted butter and stir until fully incorporated into the egg mixture. This creates a rich base that helps the coating adhere.

Coat The Mushrooms:

Take each mushroom, dip it completely in the egg mixture, then drop it into the bag with the coating mixture. Seal the bag and gently shake until the mushroom is fully covered. Remove carefully and place on the oiled baking sheet, leaving space between each mushroom.

Bake To Perfection:

Bake the coated mushrooms for 12 to 14 minutes total, turning each mushroom over with tongs halfway through cooking for even browning. For the ultimate crispy finish, switch your oven to the low broil setting for the final 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

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My absolute favorite ingredient in this recipe is the ground sunflower seeds. I discovered this trick by accident when experimenting with nut free coatings, and it creates the most incredible crispy texture that people always comment on. The slight nuttiness complements the earthiness of the mushrooms perfectly.

Make Ahead Tips

These crispy mushrooms can be prepared several hours in advance before your gathering. Complete all steps through coating the mushrooms, then arrange them on the baking sheet and refrigerate uncovered for up to 4 hours. Simply place in the preheated oven when ready to serve. The coating may absorb some moisture during refrigeration, but the hot oven will still create a nicely crisp exterior.

Perfect Pairings

These garlic mushrooms shine as an appetizer but can easily become part of a larger meal. Serve alongside a protein like grilled chicken or steak for a complete low carb dinner. They also make an excellent side dish with almost any meal. For dipping, consider a simple garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or even marinara sauce if you enjoy that classic fried mushroom pairing.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your mushrooms aren't getting crispy enough, there are a few potential culprits. First, ensure your mushrooms are completely dry before coating. Any excess moisture will create steam instead of browning. Second, make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F before adding the mushrooms. Finally, don't overcrowd the baking sheet as this can trap moisture and prevent proper crisping.

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The result? Perfectly golden mushrooms with a crunch that you'll crave again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these mushrooms dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the parmesan cheese and melted butter from the recipe. The almond flour and sunflower seed coating will still provide plenty of flavor and crunch without the dairy ingredients.

→ What type of mushrooms work best for this dish?

Small to medium-sized button mushrooms work best as they maintain their shape and have the perfect bite-size quality. You could also use cremini mushrooms for a slightly more earthy flavor.

→ Can I prepare these mushrooms ahead of time?

You can bread the mushrooms a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated, but for maximum crispiness, it's best to bake them just before serving. They tend to soften as they cool.

→ What can I serve with these crispy garlic mushrooms?

These mushrooms make a wonderful appetizer on their own or can be served with a dipping sauce like aioli, ranch, or marinara. They also work well as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.

→ Can I use a different flour instead of almond flour?

Yes, you can substitute coconut flour or another gluten-free flour blend, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly. If you don't need the dish to be gluten-free, regular breadcrumbs can also work.

→ Why do you use ground sunflower seeds in the coating?

Ground sunflower seeds add extra crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the mushrooms beautifully. They also help create that perfect crispy exterior without needing traditional breadcrumbs.